A debate about the role of history in the Hebrew Bible has been simmering for decades. Books intended to reconstruct the history of Israel have continued to emerge, each arguing for different interpretations of the material in the Bible once understood to be essentially historical. This classic study by a biblical scholar at the turn of the twentieth century is a period piece as well as a stepping stone into the discussions as they continue today. A man with a stormy personal history, Smith recovered from a trial for heresy to move on to some of the recognized theological schools of his day. Today this book stands out for its general assumption of the historicity of the Bible, despite its original controversial ramifications. Smith covers each period of the history of the Hebrew Scriptures, beginning with the sources and origins, and taking the study up through the Greek and heroic ages until the time of the reigning High Priests. A standard of biblical study for many years, Smith is still read and enjoyed by those who want to be reminded of how the Bible was viewed before the Fundamentalist debates somewhat later in the century.

Henry Preserved Smith (1847-1926) was a biblical scholar who was both educated at and instructor in Amherst College and Lane Theological Seminary. He studied theology in Berlin and Leipzig and was tried for heresy in his Presbytery. Becoming a Congregationalist, he taught at Andover Theological Seminary and eventually moved to Meadville Theological School (now affiliated with the University of Chicago).